The New Zealand Shipping Company steamer Kaikoura, from London direct, was delayed some hours whilst steaming up from the Heads to Port Chalmers on November 29. The vessel was coming through the new cut opposite Harrington Point, and at 9.30 took the ground about midday. She got off safely early the same evening.

The Kaikoura left the Royal Albert Docks on October 9, and, after loading explosives at Holehaven, sailed the following day for New Zealand. Moderate westerly winds were experienced to Teneriffe, which was passed in the evening of October 16; thence fine weather to the equator, which was crossed on October 23. Light to moderate south-east trades prevailed until reaching Capetown on November 2, and, after embarking several passengers, sailed the following day at 1.15 p.m. Strong south-westerly gales with very heavy, confused seas prevailed until caching the longitude of the Crozets. From thence to the Snares the vessel's progress was retarded by heavy weather from the eastward. The Snares were passed on November 27 at 4.50 p.m., where she picked up a north-east gale, which lasted until the steamer was abreast of the Nuggets at 8.40 a.m. on Thursday; thence fine to anchoring at the Heads. Captain McKellar has the following officers associated with him:— Mr J. B. Makepeace (chief officer), Mr E. E. Kettle (second), Mr R. P. Barrett (third), and Mr G. Graham (fourth). Mr J. Scott is in charge of the engine department, his assistants being Messrs. W. Sneddon, J. Reay, V. Barber, D. Baker, Gabb, and H. Dixon in the order named. Mr D. Nicholson has charge of the freezing machinery, and is assisted by Mr J. Robertson. Dr J. G. Macdonald accompanies the vessel as surgeon, and Mr A. J. Smith is steward in charge.